1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

7/10

During my apprenticeship in Project Management, I undertake work in 9 placements for the duration of three years, three of which are compulsary: Planning, Risk and Project Controls. Currently I am in a Planning placement where I am learning from the more experienced planners in the business unit, alongside developing my own logical programme. I have access to the product when requested, providing me with a better understanding of what it is that we build and what the pieces of equipment I work electronically in the office with actually are. The college studies have also given an insight into what Project Management is and what competencies a quality Project Manager holds, allowing me to see where I need to improve.
I often carry out tasks for other members of the team when requested too, which can inlcude working on new projects or developing current ones to make them more efficient for the business.

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

8/10

I have been able to develop my presentation and influencing skills through college work/projects alongside work placements. I have also began to learn some of the core Project Management skills, i.e. planning and cost forecasting.

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

8/10

I enjoy my programme a lot as it provides me with a great insight into such a large and complex business and because I am encouraged to continuously develop throughout the scheme.

4. How valued do you feel by BAE Systems?

9/10

I feel that BAE values me highly as the company is investing a lot into me in terms of money, time and expereince and because thye recognise that I am part of this companies future.

5. How well organised/structured is your programme?

9/10

My progamme is well orgaised, college is well strucutred and the travel arrangements are steady. I am fully aware of the placements I am expected to participate in over the 3 years and that these are subject to change. The varying placements offer a wide ranging overview of the company in Barrow.

6a. How much support do you receive from your training provider?

8/10

The training providers are regularly in contact, some of which we are actually working with daily which is a great help. We are encouraged to develop all the time.

6b. How much support do you receive from your employer?

10/10

My employer is very supportive as they are fully aware that we are likely to be the future of this company. They are very enthusiastic about developing us both personally and professionally and have provided us with mentors, to whom we can ask questions relying on their personal experiences working with the company.

7. How well does your salary/package meet your costs?

10/10

I feel that my salary is exceptional, given that I came here from a supermarket and my wage has mroe than doubled as a result. I can save more than I was doing, spend more and also contribute more to our household. Plus there are regular 6 monthly reviews in which it is expected that our wages will rise.

8. Are there many opportunities outside of work?

7/10

Alongside my apprenticeship, BAE Systems also encourages apprentices to take part in stretch assignments to develop skills and gain experience in actually applying the theory learned in a safe environment.

9. Would you recommend BAE Systems to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

The company offers a safe career in which you are encouraged to develop to your full potential and then push to even further this. The pay is fantastic and efforts are recognised regularly. The opportunities are wide ranging within the company and the future prospects can take you international.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to BAE Systems?

It is essential that you have an interest in the business, this does not mean an understanding of exactly what a Submarine is or how to build one; but that you are interested in learning how this is done. You must be able to adapt to new situations as your placements will rotate. This means that you may find yourself getting comfortable in one placement and before you know it, you are moving to the next one with new surroundings and job expectations. Showing an encouraging attitude to learning and continuous personal development will also help you, not only to achieve personal success; but also to develop a trusting network of friends and co-workers.